DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS AND CAMPUSES REGULATIONS

These regulations are part of the federal Drug Free Schools and Communities Act. The regulations require that, as a condition for receiving federal funds or federal financial assistance, an institution of higher education must certify that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees. Gonzaga University has implemented such a program.

Simply stated, the illegal use of drugs at Gonzaga University is not tolerated. It is unlawful to manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, or use a controlled substance or drug on University premises. The use by a Gonzaga student or employee of a controlled substance that is not medically authorized is strictly prohibited. Students or employees who violate the provisions of the drug-free campus policy may be subject to discipline, suspension, expulsion, or termination of employment. Violating this policy (and concurrent law) may also subject the student or employee to criminal prosecution. Legal penalties for drug violations vary depending on the amount and classification of the controlled substance. These penalties range from a mandatory court appearance to a substantial fine and/or lengthy prison sentence.

Gonzaga University’s alcohol policy has its basis in Washington State law. The University’s alcohol policy is detailed elsewhere in this publication. Violations of University policy and/or applicable liquor laws may subject students or employees to discipline, suspension, expulsion, or termination of employment. Violations may also be subject to criminal prosecution. Legal penalties for liquor law violations range from a mandatory court appearance to fines and jail time.

Certain health risks are associated with the illegal use of drugs and alcohol use. Drug and alcohol use can affect a person’s physical and emotional health, social life, and employment prospects. The hazards of alcohol and drug use differ from person to person. The health risks may include: interference with memory, sensation, and perception; impairment of reaction time and motor coordination; distortion of experiences and loss of self-control; death from respiratory depression; interference with the brain’s ability to take in, sort, or synthesize information; physical exhaustion; complications of intravenous injection; and fetal damage from abuse by pregnant mothers. More information about specific health risks is available at the Campus Health Center.

Gonzaga encourages students who use alcohol and have problems, or suspect they have a substance abuse problem to seek assistance through campus resources such as the Substance Abuse Counselor (available through the Student Life office), the Campus Health Center, and the Counseling and Career Assessment Center. The University may refer students with problems beyond its means to outside rehabilitative or counseling services. Employees with substance abuse problems can access appropriate treatment through the medical insurance provided by the University.

For further information about the University’s compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations, the University’s drug and alcohol policies, or related matters, please contact the Student Life office, Administration building #120, extension 4100